Sweater Vests

Sweater vests are a fast and inexpensive way to dress up your teen fashion. No matter the occasion, they provide an ideal compliment an outfit. For boys, it splits the difference between wearing a stuffy tie and a slacker tee shirt. For girls looking to keep warm without an overcoat on those chilly spring mornings, a sweater vest provides a perfect match for a skirt or jeans.

When to Wear a Sweater Vest

Some may think it's impossible to look fashionable in a sweater vest, but that simply isn't true. If you know how to rock this classic look, you'll always appear pulled-together and sophisticated. It's all about understanding the best type of vest for each occasion.

How to Wear a Sweater Vest with Style

Occasion

Job interview/internship

Worrying about your clothes is the last headache you need on a job interview, and sweater vests are perfectly appropriate for your age group. Boys can wear the vest with a nice, clean pair of slacks and girls can pair theirs with slacks or a skirt. Choosing this easy, formal accessory will keep you from tugging at hemlines and feeling uncomfortable in Mom or Dad's dress suit.

Family gatherings and religious functions

Vests are especially helpful for these occasions, as they take the guesswork out of what to wear. Family gatherings, even at a young age, can be stressful, especially when you haven't seen family members in some time. This is where a sweater vest can give you substantial peace of mind. Lending a sense of poise and polish, a sweater vest can be the perfect solution to your dilemma of what to wear. Moreover, because you feel more comfortable, you'll be able to relax and enjoy the company around you. The same can be said for religious functions. Since you have to nix the usual uniform of jeans and a tee, sometimes it's simply a matter of not having anything appropriate enough to wear. On occasions like these, the vest can be your best friend.

School

You can wear just about anything with a sweater vest. For example, pair a black sweater vest with black leather pants and spiked up hair for a punk look, or wear a crew-necked vest with a skirt and high heeled boots. There are no rules to conform to with this one. Try a preppy look like that of Alicia Silverstone in Clueless, or go punk like Joan Jett. Too extreme? Try a classic all-American look with dark blue jeans, a crisp white shirt and a sweater vest in a color of your choice. Girls, feel free to add high heeled boots and an eye-catching bag to complete your ensemble.

Tips for Choosing a Sweater Vest

You probably have some fashion ideas taking shape in your mind at this point and are feeling eager to shop. Here are some qualities to look for before heading out the door:

For both sexes, the aim is to purchase something form-fitting. The cut should be snug, but not tight. It should hug the body, but still leave you with the option of wearing a shirt or tank underneath.

In terms of color, you have free reign. The only caveat here is to try to steer clear of patterns, as they can look a bit dated. When working within the confines of a tight budget, choosing a pattern may restrict the number of times you can wear the sweater, as well of the number of outfits you can form around it. Instead, choose a solid color to help avoid these potential pitfalls.

For the most part, thickness depends on your personal preference and the climate you live in. You may want to choose a bulky vest to keep you warm during the colder months or a lightweight cotton vest for the summer months.

Where to Buy

Get Creative

Wearing a sweater vest is an affordable, creative, and versatile way to change up your wardrobe and add oomph to your style. It allows you to look polished and confident in any situation, from religious events to social functions. Since they are budget-friendly and come in so many colors and styles, you'll have no problem incorporating them into your everyday look.

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